FAQ

What is FREE about FreeNCOA.com?

The “Free” refers to FreeNCOA running a mail file through 48 Month NCOA processing in order to provide a free deliverability report. The free deliverability report shows exactly how many moves, non-deliverable, duplicate and deliverable records there are in a direct mail file. This free deliverability report allows direct mailers to make an informed decision on which level of paid processing they need to run and get updated addresses. The three paid options of service are updating all moves within the last 18 Months, 48 Months or PCOA going back 30 years. The price increases the further back in time FreeNCOA provide updates and click here for pricing.

For example, if the report shows that all moves are within the last 18 Months, there is no need to pay extra for 48 month processing, or conversely, if there are a lot of 48 Month moves, it would make sense to select the 30 Year processing. This is an invaluable tool to make an informed choice on how to invest hard-earned marketing dollars and puts the “Free” in FreeNCOA.com.

Will I get all of the reports that I need for postal discounts?
Yes, all reports are returned and provided for you to get postal discounts from the United States Post Service (USPS).

What is a Processing Acknowledgement Form (PAF)?
The PAF is an essential part of the NCOALink process because it enables USPS and the mailing industry to comply with the Privacy Act of 1974 by way of a written request to use COA information for mailing purposes. Click Here to download Information Packet about the PAF.

Do I have to Sign a Processing Acknowledgement Form (PAF)?
USPS requires a PAF Form to be on file with the licensee. Please Click Here to download a blank PAF form that you will need to fill out the list owner’s box on. NCOALink processing is provided by a non-exclusive licensee of the United States Postal Service.

How often should I run NCOA:
On November 22nd 2008 the USPS increased the minimum frequency of all Move Update processing from 185 (calendar) days to 95 days prior to the date of mailing.

How often is the NCOA database updated?
USPS provides updated, computerized change-of-address information on a weekly basis to NCOALink Full Service and Limited Service Provider licensees and monthly to End User licensees. FreeNCOA.com uses Full Service and Limited Service Providers.

Do I know if it was a person or business that moved?
Yes, when a file is run through NCOA Individual, Family and Business Moves are Flagged on the File along with the date that they moved.

What fields are appended during the NCOA Process?
Please Click Here to download a pdf document including headers and decodes for elements appended during the NCOA, DPV and LACS process.